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Miner thrilled about being with Phils

Miner thrilled about being with Phils

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By Stephen Pianovich
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MLB.com |

PHILADELPHIA -- Friday was not the first time 31-year-old right-hander Zach Miner was in a Major League clubhouse, but being there brought back memories.

The Phillies called up Miner from Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Friday. Miner spent four seasons with the Tigers, but his last appearance came on Oct. 6, 2009. He underwent Tommy John surgery after that campaign and missed the entire 2010 season, and has bounced around the Minors since then.

He may be even more excited to join the Phillies now than he was when he debuted for the Tigers in 2006.

"When you're coming up and you're young, you take some things for granted," Miner said. "You get hurt and realize how hard it was to stay in the big leagues, and how hard it is to get back. You just have a better perspective on things."

Miner has a 4.24 ERA in 157 Major League appearances as both a starter and reliever. He pitched in both roles for Lehigh Valley this season. In 27 games, 12 of which were starts, he had a 3.90 ERA.

It was speculated that the Phillies would have Miner start Saturday with Jonathan Pettibone on the DL with a strained right shoulder, but John Lannan will pitch that day. Manager Charlie Manuel plans on using Miner as a reliever.

"If they give me the ball, I'll pitch," Miner said. "As far as I know, I'll be in the bullpen."

To make room for Miner on the roster, right-handed reliever J.C. Ramirez was designated for assignment.

Stephen Pianovich is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.